Bill to allocate COVID relief funds passes
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News from MT House of Representatives Majority
HELENA — The Montana House of Representatives passed House Bill 632 last week which allocates Montana’s federal COVID-19 relief funds from the American Resue Plan Act passed by Congress last month. House Bill 632 passed with a strong 83-14 bipartisan vote. House Republicans were committed to putting the funds towards long-term investments in critical infrastructure, telecommunications, and economic stabilization.
“While it was fiscally irresponsible for Congress to pile up more national debt, the Montana House invested these funds wisely in critical infrastructure that will support our economy for future generations,” Speaker of the Montana House Wylie Galt said. Montana received nearly $3 billion from ARPA, which includes direct funding to local governments, schools, and individuals. Of the total, the Legislature had flexibility around allocating about $960 million. House Bill 632 invests $500 million in infrastructure, $250 million in telecommunications, and $210 million in economic stabilization. Additionally, the education and healthcare sectors will receive $420 million and $400 million respectively from ARPA.
House Bill 632 is bring carried by Rep. Frank Garner (R-Kalispell). The bill now moves to the Montana Senate for further consideration.
